"The Obama administration won't be able to fill a key science position until it testifies about a decision to block areas of the eastern Gulf and Atlantic seaboard from new oil and gas drilling, a Republican senator said Thursday.

Sen. David Vitter, R- La., said in a letter to President Barack Obama that he was putting a 'hold' on the nomination of Dr. Scott Doney for chief scientist at the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration. He first wants answers to the tough new policy on offshore drilling announced earlier this month.

Under Senate rules, a single senator can prevent a nominee from getting a vote on the Senate floor. It takes 60 vote to override such 'holds.'"

Jim Abrams reports for the Huffington Post December 9, 2010. [2]